Preventing Water Damage: Stay Safe and Dry This Spring
The snow is melting, the river thawing, and we’re ready for green trees and barbecue weather. What you may not be prepared for is the heightened risk of water-related damage that tags along. This spring, Red River Mutual wants you to be prepared. We’re sharing some of our Loss Prevention Tips to help you stay high and dry and avoid making a water-related claim this season.
Preventing Water Damage
Often, water damage is avoidable, or you can lessen its effects by taking some precautionary measures. Try practicing the following to stop water damage before it starts.
Give Your Property Regular Inspections
Make a habit of checking to make sure things like your floor drains and eaves troughs are clear, your sump pump is ready to work, and your water heater and household appliances are leak-free. You can also make a monthly and weekly checklist to avoid unwanted leaks and puddles.
Maintain Your Property
Replace or repair items that malfunction as quickly as possible. It could save you facing a flood with a leaky sump pump or heavy rains with a leaky roof. The cost might be daunting, but minor repairs now could save you more significant repairs (and higher prices) later.
Take Extra Precaution
Make sure everything on your property can withstand unexpected rain or flooding. Small changes like adding backflow valves to avoid sewer backup and downspout extensions that drain water at least six feet away from your foundation can stand between your property and disaster.
If you want to learn more about simple preventative measures you can take to protect your property, check out these Loss Prevention Tips. Preventing Water Damage and Preventing Basement Flooding.
After Water Damage
Sometimes water damage is unavoidable, but we’re here for you with tips to help with the cleanup and help lessen the chances of it happening again.
Mold
Mold loves a good flood or leak and can stick around long after your water-related problems are over. It can also cause serious health issues. It’s important to take proper measures to identify any mold sources and thoroughly clean and repair your property after water damage. Make sure your home is mold-free now and in the future.
Your Health
Consider your health when cleaning your home after water damage. There are risks associated with contaminated water and mold. Floodwaters can contain viruses, bacteria and parasites, and any wet material can become a home for mold. Be thorough and wear proper personal protective gear when cleaning.
Also, ensure water, electricity and gas utilities are turned off for a significant flood and that all nearby appliances are off for more minor leaks.
Clean Up
Remove water as soon as possible using a wet vacuum or pumping method. Remove damaged carpeting, furniture, drywall, appliances and personal items to a dry area with good ventilation – toss anything that can’t be dried. Clean and dry everything, and include a round of disinfectant for good measure.
Drying and Ventilation
Dry out your home. How intensive this will depend on the scope of the water damage. For small leaks, a house fan and an open window will work. For major leaks or floods, use heavy-duty fans, humidifiers and get as much airflow in the house as possible.
For more tips on cleanup after water damage, check out our Loss Prevention Tips: Cleaning Up Your Flooded Basement and Building-Related Mold.
Stay Dry This Season
Follow these steps for a clean, dry home that’s prepared for next year. To find more Red River Mutual Loss Prevention tips, please visit our Loss Prevention Tips Archive.
Live in Saskatchewan? Stay safe with advice and information from FloodSafe Saskatchewan: www.floodsafesask.ca